RecipesBahrainBahraini Sweet Pancakes (Ghuraiba)

Bahraini Sweet Pancakes (Ghuraiba)

Delicate, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies with a hint of cardamom, a popular sweet treat in Bahrain.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time15-20 minutes
Total Time35-40 minutes
Servings24
DifficultyEasy
Bahraini Sweet Pancakes (Ghuraiba) - Bahrain traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 2.5 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 cup Ghee(softened)
  • 0.5 cup Powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp Cardamom powder
  • 1 tbsp Rose water
  • 0.25 cup Pistachios(chopped, for garnish (optional))

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, cream together the softened ghee and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

  2. 2

    Add the cardamom powder and rose water to the ghee mixture and mix well.

  3. 3

    Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

  4. 4

    Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

  5. 5

    Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, then flatten them slightly into discs about 1 cm thick. Alternatively, you can shape them into crescents or other desired forms.

  6. 6

    Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets. If using, gently press a few chopped pistachios onto the top of each cookie.

  7. 7

    Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should remain pale in the center.

  8. 8

    Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will firm up as they cool.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Ensure the ghee is softened but not melted for the best texture.
  • Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can make it easier to handle, especially in warm weather.
  • Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to be delicate and pale.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a pinch of saffron threads (soaked in a teaspoon of warm milk) for a subtle flavor and color.
  • Incorporate finely chopped almonds or walnuts into the dough.
  • Drizzle with a little melted white chocolate after cooling.

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